Treatment of small postoperative scars with cryotherapy

Scar treatment by cryotherapy is a minimally invasive medical procedure that uses extremely low temperatures to selectively destroy pathological scar tissue and stimulate the skin’s natural regenerative processes.

Indications 

• Hypertrophic and keloid scars characterized by increased volume, firm consistency, and excessive collagen production
• Post-surgical scars, particularly those prone to thickening, rigidity, or local discomfort
• Post-traumatic scars associated with altered skin texture, tension, or aesthetic irregularities
• Scars accompanied by functional or subjective symptoms such as pain, pruritus, or a sensation of tightness
• Selected post-acne scars with uneven relief and reduced skin elasticity
• Need for scar tissue remodeling and improvement of skin elasticity and uniformity

Procedure

• Clinical evaluation of the scar and treatment protocol planning
• Cleansing and disinfection of the treatment area
• Application of a cryogenic agent (usually liquid nitrogen) using controlled techniques
• Destruction of scar tissue through rapid freezing and gradual thawing
• Post-procedure monitoring of the local reaction
• 10–30 minutes per session
• Number of sessions is individualized based on scar type, size, and age
• Interval between sessions: 3–6 weeks

Contraindications

• Active infections or inflammation in the treatment area
• Severe peripheral circulation disorders
• Cold sensitivity (e.g. cryoglobulinemia, Raynaud phenomenon)
• Active skin diseases in the treatment area
• Pregnancy (based on individual medical assessment)

Recovery / Restrictions

• Transient local reactions may occur, including redness, swelling, and sensations of cold or burning at the treatment site
• Mechanical irritation of the treated area should be avoided for the first 24–48 hours
• Sauna, hot baths, swimming pools, and intense physical activity should be avoided for 3–5 days
• Sun exposure should be limited and photoprotection used until complete skin recovery
• Crust or blister formation is possible and should not be removed or punctured
• Strict adherence to individual medical recommendations is essential for optimal results

Advantages

• Minimally invasive technique without surgical intervention
• Selective action on scar tissue while preserving surrounding healthy skin
• Helps reduce scar volume and firmness
• Alleviates subjective symptoms such as itching, discomfort, and tightness
• Short procedure duration with no need for hospitalization
• Can be used as part of a comprehensive scar treatment protocol
• Suitable for outpatient treatment

Sources:

https://thedermdigest.com/the-dermatologists-guide-to-treating-keloids-5-pearls-and-promising-future-therapies/
https://www.chaban-medical.com/what-is-cryotherapy
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5965337/
 

IMPORTANT!

The information presented in this section is for informational purposes only and is not intended for self-diagnosis or treatment. In case of pain or worsening health, it is essential to consult a physician, who will recommend the necessary investigations and establish a personalized treatment plan. To ensure the most accurate and consistent interpretation of test results, it is recommended that analyses be performed in the same laboratory, as different laboratories may use different methods and measurement units for similar tests.